Family Vacations: The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is noted for itsthought-provoking exhibits and informative tours.

Cincinnati was once a major hub of Underground Railroad activity due to its location on the Ohio River. In the 1800s, the city offered refuge to thousands fleeing slavery in the South. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center showcases the importance and relevance of human struggles for freedom in the United States and around the world, in the past and present.

Local educators helped design many of the exhibits to parallel the curriculum of area schools. As a result, the exhibits are child-friendly and use storytelling, role-playing, and hands-on activities to engage young visitors. Several local companies give guided half-day, full-day, and two-day Secret Passage Tours that bring the Underground Railroad experience to life.

The center presents eight galleries of historical exhibits. Visitors can view a two-story slave pen and attend live cultural performances. A wide range of educational programs take place most weekends, including concerts, lectures, and workshops. In addition, the center features two theaters and a cafe.

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center Information

Address: 50 E. Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH

Telephone: 513/333.7500 or 877/648.4838

Hours of Operation:

Tues.-Sat.: 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Admission: Adults, $12; children, $8

To learn more about family vacation destinations, see:

Family Vacations: Learn about hundreds of family vacations in destinations all over North America.

Ohio State Guide: Learn about Mobil Travel Guide-rated hotels and restaurants in Ohio, as well as other recreational activities.

Scenic Drives: For those who think that getting there is half the fun, we have compiled more than 100 of the most scenic drives throughout the country.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Laura Sutherland is a widely acknowledged authority on family travel and has published several books on the topic, including Best Family Ski Vacations In North America and Tropical Family Vacations.